Warning over fireworks injuries

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/northern_ireland/7668501.stm

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The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents is urging people to take care with fireworks after an increase in injuries.

Almost 100 people were injured by fireworks in the four-week period around Halloween last year - a rise of more than 40% on the previous year.

Two thirds of them were under the age of 16 and almost 90% were male.

Ita McErlean, RoSPA home safety manager for Northern Ireland, said the figures for injuries were disappointing.

"Fireworks are not toys. They are explosives and need to be treated with respect," she said.

"Not only can misusing fireworks cause great distress to other people, but, as these figures show, it can also result in injuries, some of them serious.

"The safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a properly organised public display.

"But if you are having a party at home in Northern Ireland be sure to plan it well in advance, ensure you have a licence, buy your fireworks from a registered retailer and follow the firework code."